What's the Process and Cost of a Russian Manicure?
Be prepared to sit for quite a while if you decide to get a russian manicure. "For just a basic russian manicure, you're not sitting for less than two hours," Gerstein says. If you add designs or additional nail art, you can expect that time to increase.
As for how much russian manicures cost, the price will vary depending on your location and the exact salon you go to, but Gerstein says that for her area in New York City, the manicures typically start at $80.
The Downsides of a Russian Manicure
While this nail look is picking up in popularity, it's also caused quite a bit of controversy in the nail community. That's because the extremely neat look that has become its signature is achieved by cutting past the cuticle area, which can lead to bleeding, pain, or (in worst case scenarios) serious infections if not done properly.
"The eponychium is what gets cut in a Russian manicure," says Gerstein. The eponychium is what "seals" the nail bed and protects it from bacterial infection. Cutting it incorrectly can expose the nail to bacteria and pathogens.
For this reason, Gerstein stresses going to a certified manicurist who only uses professional tools and follows strict protocols when it comes to cleanliness. "When someone is really trained and [has] the right tools that you can't [just] buy off of Amazon, you can achieve this look the proper way," says Gerstein.
Translation: Don't try this one at home.